FAQ

The questions we actually get asked.

Grouped by what you are trying to find out. If your question is not here, an editor answers it directly, and then we add it to this page.

01

Buying and access

3 questions

How long do I get access for?

It depends on the exam: 6 months for MSRA and UKMLA, 12 months for MRCS Part A, 4 months for UCAT, and 3 months for the ST1 interview bank. The exact period is on each exam's page before you pay.

Can I use MediWord on my phone?

Yes. MediWord is a native iOS and Android app, and the same account works in the browser. Questions, notes and flashcards download for offline use.

Do you offer group or deanery licences?

Yes. Email us with the number of seats and the exam, and one of the two of us will reply with a quote, usually the same day.

02

Content and accuracy

3 questions

Who writes the questions?

Named UK doctors who have sat the exam, each question is reviewed by a second clinician before it publishes.

What happens if I think a question is wrong?

Use the feedback box on the question. It goes straight to a named editor, who replies and, if the item is wrong, fixes it and records the change.

Are your questions recalled from real exams?

Stems are reconstructed from structured candidate recollections after a sitting, then rewritten and referenced by a doctor. Nothing is copied from the paper itself.

03

Studying

3 questions

Should I start with questions or with notes?

Questions. Use the bank to find your weak topics, then read the note for that specific topic. The two are mapped onto the same curriculum tree so the handover is one click.

How do mock papers differ from normal question sets?

Mock papers are timed and withhold all feedback until you finish, so the experience matches the real sitting. Regular sets give you the explanation immediately.

How do the flashcards schedule cards?

Spaced repetition. You rate recall as Again, Hard, Good or Easy, and the interval adjusts. Twenty minutes a day clears a typical due queue.

04

Exams and plans

67 questions

Does the bank match the real MSRA format?

Yes. Every question is single-best-answer style, written to the same stem length and curriculum coverage as the live MSRA.

What makes MediWord different to other question banks?

MediWord stands out by focusing on the two most challenging and often overlooked areas of the MSRA: Professional Dilemmas and Recall-Based Questions. Our content is written by expert junior doctors who have excelled in the exam, and every clinical scenario is based on the latest NICE guidelines. For Professional Dilemmas, we align closely with GMC ethical guidance to help you approach questions with confidence and accuracy. With regularly updated recall-based content and concise revision notes, MediWord offers targeted, high-yield preparation — not just volume for the sake of it.

Which specialties does this cover?

The scenarios apply to core surgical, medical, anaesthetic and other CT1/ST1 interviews.

Is this aligned with the official MLA content map?

Yes. Every question is tagged to a knowledge area and presentation from the GMC's MLA content map.

Is the timing the same as the live UCAT?

Yes. Every section mock uses the same number of items and time limits as the live test.

Are the anatomy questions image-based?

Many are. We use labelled diagrams and clinical photographs where they help test applied anatomy.

How often is the content on MediWord updated?

We regularly update our content to reflect the latest NICE guidelines, GMC standards, and feedback from recent MSRA candidates. Our recall-based questions are reviewed after each exam cycle to ensure you're revising the most current and high-yield material.

Can I use this for the January sitting?

Absolutely. The bank is updated each cycle and includes a timed January-sitting mock.

Do you cover the CPSA?

CPSA preparation is on our roadmap. The current bank focuses on the AKT.

Does the bank cover all four applied-basic-sciences domains?

Yes. Anatomy, physiology, pathology and applied surgical science are all represented in exam proportions.

Do you cover the new UCAT format?

We update the bank each cycle to reflect the latest UCAT specification.

Are the answers scored?

Yes. Each model answer includes a marking grid so you can see what scores points.

Can I switch to Part B later?

Yes. Part B preparation is available as a separate bank, with a discount for existing Part A subscribers.

Can medical schools use this?

We offer institutional licences. Contact us for cohort pricing and analytics.

Can I use this for one medical school application cycle?

Yes. The 3-month access period is designed to cover a single UCAT sitting.

What happens after 6 months?

You can renew at a discounted rate, or export your notes and flashcards before access ends.

Can I practise with a partner?

Many scenarios are designed for paired practice, with prompts for the interviewer.

Who writes the questions on MediWord?

All our questions are written by UK-based junior doctors who have achieved high scores in the MSRA. Our team combines clinical experience with first-hand exam insight to create questions that are realistic, relevant, and aligned with current guidelines.

Is MediWord suitable for both GP and Specialty Training applicants?

Yes — MediWord is designed for all MSRA candidates, including those applying to GP and other specialty training posts. Our content covers the full MSRA syllabus, with a particular emphasis on high-yield areas like Professional Dilemmas and clinical scenarios relevant to both pathways.

What is the MSRA exam?

The MSRA (Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment) is a computer-based exam used for entry into a range of specialty training programmes in the UK, including General Practice, Psychiatry, Radiology, and more. It tests both clinical problem-solving and professional judgement.

How is the MSRA structured?

The MSRA consists of two main sections:

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS): Assesses clinical knowledge and application.

Professional Dilemmas (PD): Assesses judgement in professional and ethical scenarios (similar to an SJT).

Who needs to take the MSRA?

Doctors applying to the following specialty training programmes in the UK are typically required to take the MSRA as part of the selection process: General Practice (GP), Clinical Radiology, Clinical Oncology, Community Sexual & Reproductive Health, Core Psychiatry Training, Obstetrics & Gynaecology (O&G), Ophthalmology, Neurosurgery (ST1), Anaesthetics (ACCS Anaesthetics), Core Surgical Training (some routes), Histopathology, Public Health, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS), Neurosurgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Old Age Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. Requirements can change each year and sometimes vary by deanery or specific training post. Always check the latest recruitment guidance for your chosen specialty.

How can MediWord help me prepare for the MSRA?

MediWord provides a recall-based MSRA question bank with over 3,000 practice questions, 500+ concise revision notes, and detailed explanations aligned with the latest NICE and GMC guidelines. We also offer mock exams, strategy guides, and targeted practice for the MSRA Professional Dilemmas section.

What is the UKMLA?

The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is a national exam that all UK medical students and international graduates must pass to practice medicine in the UK. It consists of two parts:

AKT (Applied Knowledge Test) – a computer-based MCQ exam testing clinical knowledge.

CPSA (Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment) – an OSCE-style practical assessment (for UK grads only; IMGs are exempt).

Who has to sit the UKMLA?

All UK medical students graduating from 2025 onwards.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) applying for GMC registration from 2024 onwards.

What topics are covered?

The UKMLA content map includes:

Clinical specialties (e.g. Cardiology, Respiratory, Surgery, Paediatrics)

Investigations and prescribing

Ethics, professionalism, and legal duties

Public health and population medicine

Our question bank is mapped to these categories using high-yield, exam-style questions based on real recall and GMC standards.

What is the SJT?

The Situational Judgement Test (SJT), also known as the Professional Dilemmas paper, assesses how you respond to real-world workplace scenarios involving professionalism, ethics, teamwork, and patient safety. It’s a major part of the MSRA, UKFP, and GMC registration assessments.

What types of questions come up?

Two main formats:

Ranking Questions – Rank 5 actions from most to least appropriate.

Multiple-Selection Questions – Choose 3 most appropriate actions from a list of 8.

MediWord includes both styles, structured to reflect real exam recall.

How many SJT questions does MediWord offer?

Currently over 630+ SJT questions, including:

Detailed rationale for why one answer is best

Why other answers are wrong

Clinical tips on handling dilemmas in real practice

Mapped domains (e.g. patient safety, team working, integrity)

How is the SJT scored?

Ranking: Full marks for the correct order, partial marks for near-misses.

Multiple-Selection: Marks only for picking the exact 3 best answers. No partial credit.

Does MediWord include explanations?

Yes — every question includes a detailed explanation. Clinical questions reference NICE/BNF guidelines, and PD questions are broken down using SMART reasoning, with links to relevant GMC domains to help you learn the ethical principles behind the answers. All of our explanations include summary of relevant NICE/GMC guidelines and a direct link for further reading.

Is MediWord suitable for both CPS and PD preparation?

Absolutely. We are one of the few platforms that gives equal attention to both sections. You'll find hundreds of expertly written PD scenarios — structured, relevant, and fully aligned with GMC standards.

Is there a free trial available?

Yes - we offer a 24-hour free trial that gives you access to a limited number of questions across both Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) and Professional Dilemmas (PD). It’s a great way to explore the platform and experience how MediWord can support your MSRA revision before committing.

Can I use MediWord on mobile or tablet?

Yes — MediWord is fully responsive and works seamlessly on mobile, tablet, and desktop. You can revise on the go, whether you're commuting, on a break at work, or studying from home. Just log in through your browser — no app download required.

How often is the MSRA question bank updated?

Our content is continuously updated to reflect the latest exam trends and guidelines, ensuring you’re always revising the most relevant material.

Do you provide support or a community for candidates?

Absolutely. MediWord is more than just a question bank. We offer a supportive online community, regular expert-led webinars, and a Telegram group where you can connect with other candidates, share advice, and get your questions answered.

Is there a free trial or demo available?

We periodically offer free webinars, MSRA sample questions, and resources to all users. Check our website or join our Telegram group for the latest updates and opportunities.

What makes MediWord different from other MSRA preparation resources?

MediWord is built by doctors who have recently excelled in the MSRA and know exactly what the exam involves. All our questions are based on real exam recalls, with explanations that are clear, concise, and fully aligned with the latest NICE and GMC guidelines. In addition to high-yield MSRA practice questions with revision notes, we offer a supportive community, regular live webinars, and easy access to expert advice—helping you feel confident and well-supported throughout your MSRA preparation.

How to prepare for a Situational Judgement Test (SJT)?

Start by understanding what the SJT test questions are designed to assess: professionalism, ethical reasoning, teamwork, communication, and patient safety. Use high-quality, MSRA-style practice materials that reflect real clinical scenarios. Time yourself, review model answers carefully, and focus on justifying the ranking of responses — not just memorisation. A solid strategy is to study GMC guidance, especially Good Medical Practice, and cross-reference it with SJT test questions to understand how the guidance applies in real-life situations.

How long is an online Situational Judgement Assessment?

For the MSRA, the Situational Judgement Test (SJT) component lasts 95 minutes and includes 50 scenarios. You won’t receive extra time, so effective timing and pacing are essential to perform well.

What does SJT mean?

SJT stands for Situational Judgement Test. It’s a type of psychological assessment used to evaluate how you respond to hypothetical scenarios in the workplace — often under pressure, with multiple competing Priorities.

Are Situational Judgement Tests difficult?

Yes, they can be. The difficulty isn’t in medical knowledge, but in judging professionalism, prioritisation, and communication, especially when all options seem plausible. What makes it tough is maintaining consistency in applying a framework under time pressure.

What is a good score on the Situational Judgement Test?

In the MSRA, top-decile candidates typically score above 85–90% on the Situational Judgement Test (SJT). Performing well on situational judgement test questions can secure your training job, even if your clinical score is average. Anything above 75% puts you in a competitive position — but aim higher.

Where can I find quality Situational Judgement Test practice materials?

Right here on MediWord, we offer 630+ situational judgement test practice questions tailored to the MSRA format, complete with detailed rationales and ranking strategies. Our questions are scenario-based, recall-informed, and built to match GMC guidance — no fluff, just focused prep.

Are there any free SJT test questions available for practice?

Yes, MediWord offers a free trial with sample SJT test questions that reflect the real MSRA standard. We also occasionally release free PDF bundles and mock questions via email or Telegram — subscribe or join the community to stay updated.

What is the best strategy for answering SJT test questions?

Always think: patient safety first, professionalism second. Prioritise what a competent F1 would do — not what’s “nice,” but what’s appropriate. Rank by impact and urgency, avoid extremes, and learn to recognise GMC-aligned behaviour. Use SJT practice questions consistently, and review every explanation to identify patterns and strengthen your judgement.

Do I need medical knowledge to answer SJT questions correctly?

No, the SJT isn’t testing clinical knowledge — it’s assessing judgement. You need to know how a safe, professional junior doctor should behave in tricky situations. That said, familiarity with the NHS environment and GMC guidance will absolutely help you choose the best actions.

What is the best way to prepare for the Medical Licensing Assessment?

Start by covering the Medical Licensing Assessment Content Map — this is your syllabus. Use a structured UKMLA question bank that mirrors the UKMLA’s Applied Knowledge Test (AKT)-style format, and revise systematically. Don’t just cram facts — focus on clinical reasoning, guidelines, and decision-making. Regular mock exams under timed conditions will build your stamina and sharpen your recall.

Where can I find high-quality UKMLA practice papers online?

MediWord offers UKMLA practice papers that reflect the actual exam’s tone, format, and difficulty. Each paper is mapped to the UKMLA blueprint and comes with detailed answer explanations, ensuring you don’t just guess your way through revision.

How helpful are UKMLA past papers in preparing for the exam?

UKMLA past papers help with familiarisation, but the official UKMLA doesn’t release past papers regularly. Instead, focus on recall-based question banks written by top scorers and mapped to the real exam blueprint. Quality over quantity matters.

What’s the ideal timeline to start revising for the exam?

Start 3–6 months before your exam date, or earlier if you’re balancing rotations or work. Aim for consistent progress: revise weekly using UKMLA revision questions, test yourself with MCQs, and complete full mock exams monthly in the last 2–3 months. Leave cramming to others — you’re aiming for top marks, not just a pass.

Are there free resources available for UKMLA revision?

Yes, MediWord offers free UKMLA practice papers​, flashcards, and revision PDFs — especially around peak exam periods. Join our Telegram or WhatsApp groups for early access to giveaways and free updates.

What makes a question bank high-quality for medical exam revision?

It needs three things:

• Accuracy – aligned with current NICE and GMC guidelines
• Relevance – focused on high-yield, commonly tested material
• Explanation quality – clear breakdowns for right and wrong answers

What topics are commonly covered in the UKMLA exams?

The UKMLA assesses across all specialties, but high-yield topics include:

• Acute and emergency medicine
• Clinical pharmacology
• Infectious diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Respiratory and cardiovascular
• Mental health and neurology

Expect questions that test diagnosis, management, prescribing, and red flag recognition. A high-quality UKMLA question bank can help you focus on these key areas and build confidence through targeted practice.

What is the pass mark for the UKMLA exams?

The pass mark isn’t fixed — it’s set each year using the Angoff method, typically around 60–70%, depending on the cohort’s performance. Your aim shouldn’t just be to pass — aim to score highly and stay competitive, especially if you’re applying for competitive jobs later.

Which question bank is the best for MSRA exam preparation?

MediWord: Built by doctors who’ve consistently scored in the top decile, MediWord offers a comprehensive MSRA question bank with over 3,300 recall-based questions, 630+ Professional Dilemmas (SJT) scenarios, full mock papers, and flashcards — all mapped to real MSRA trends and current NICE/GMC guidelines. No outdated filler — just focused, high-yield prep.

How to apply for the MSRA?

You don’t apply directly for the MSRA — it’s triggered through your Oriel application for specialty training (GP, Psychiatry, Radiology, CST, etc.). If your application is eligible and shortlisted, you’ll be invited to sit the MSRA. Key deadlines are listed on Oriel — apply early and check regularly.

How many questions are on the MSRA exam?

There are two sections:

• Professional Dilemmas (SJT): 50 scenarios in 95 minutes
• Clinical Problem Solving (CPS): 97 questions in 75 minutes

Both are set in a single sitting at a Pearson VUE test centre or online.

Are MSRA practice papers similar to the real exam?

If you're using MediWord, yes. Our mock papers mirror the real exam format, difficulty, and time pressure. Many candidates say the layout, tone, and content feel identical to what they saw on exam day. Our MSRA practice papers are carefully designed to reflect real clinical scenarios, ensuring you're fully prepared. Other banks vary — many are too easy or not clinically relevant.

What are the common mistakes when doing MSRA practice questions?

Rushing through without reviewing explanations

• Memorising answers instead of understanding logic

• Ignoring SJT frameworks and just “going with gut feeling”

• Failing to time mocks properly

• Over-prioritising niche clinical trivia instead of high-yield, frequently tested content

Smart practice means learning from your mistakes, not just counting questions done.

Can MSRA practice papers help boost my score?

Absolutely — if they’re realistic and come with quality feedback. Regular mock testing builds timing, pattern recognition, and decision-making under pressure. MediWord MSRA practice questions are built from real recall patterns, giving you a serious edge in both CPS and SJT sections.

Do all MSRA question banks include Professional Dilemmas questions?

No, some MSRA question banks either skip this section entirely or fail to accurately replicate the style of the real SJT. MediWord includes over 630 SJT scenarios, all written in alignment with GMC's Good Medical Practice. Each scenario comes with strategy guides and rank explanations—because succeeding in the SJT isn’t about guessing; it’s about thinking like a safe and effective F1 doctor.

Does access renew automatically?

No. Every MediWord plan is a one-off purchase for a fixed access period. We do not store a recurring mandate, so nothing charges without you buying again.

Can I extend access if my sitting moves?

Yes. Email us with your new sitting date and we extend the existing plan rather than charging you for a second one.

What is included in every plan?

Question bank, revision notes, flashcards, mock papers and performance tracking for that exam. There are no content tiers hidden inside a plan.

Is there a student or trainee discount?

Foundation doctors and medical students get 15% off with a verified NHS or university email. Ask us before you buy and we send a code.

What does the refund guarantee cover?

Twenty-four hours from purchase. If you are not satisfied, reply to your receipt and we refund the full amount, no reason required, one refund per person.